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Moissanite and lab-grown diamonds are the two most popular choices for couples who want a brilliant, durable center stone without the price of a mined diamond. Every ring we make at Reflections Jewelers is available in either stone, so we get this question every day. Here is a straightforward comparison to help you decide.
What is moissanite?
Moissanite is silicon carbide, a gemstone first discovered in a meteor crater in 1893. Natural moissanite is extremely rare, so the moissanite used in fine jewelry today is created in a lab. It is not a diamond and not a diamond imitation in the cheap sense; it is its own gemstone with its own optical properties.
What is a lab-grown diamond?
A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond. It is made of carbon with the same crystal structure, hardness and chemical makeup as a mined diamond. The only difference is where it formed. Lab-grown diamonds are graded for cut, color, clarity and carat just like mined diamonds.
Side-by-side comparison
| Moissanite | Lab-grown diamond | |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Silicon carbide | Carbon (a real diamond) |
| Hardness (Mohs scale) | 9.25 | 10 |
| Brilliance (refractive index) | About 2.65 to 2.69 | About 2.42 |
| Fire (dispersion) | About 0.104, more rainbow flashes | About 0.044, more white sparkle |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Everyday durability | Excellent | Excellent |
How do they look different?
Both stones are bright and clear. The biggest visible difference is the type of sparkle. Moissanite throws more colorful "fire," especially in sunlight, so it can look a little more rainbow-like. A lab-grown diamond shows a crisper mix of white light and color. Most people cannot tell them apart across a table, but side by side, many notice moissanite's extra color play.
Which is more durable?
A diamond is the hardest gemstone, scoring 10 on the Mohs scale. Moissanite is very close at 9.25, harder than sapphire and ruby. Both are well suited to an engagement ring you wear every day.
Which costs less?
Moissanite costs significantly less than a lab-grown diamond of the same size. On our site, you can switch the "Stone Type" option on any ring to see both prices for the exact same setting.
How to choose
- Choose moissanite if you want the biggest look for your budget and love colorful sparkle.
- Choose a lab-grown diamond if it matters to you that the stone is a real diamond, or you prefer a classic white sparkle.
Either way, every piece comes with our lifetime warranty. Browse our engagement rings and wedding bands, then choose the stone that fits you. Not sure which is right? Send us a message and we will help you compare.
